WARRIORS TO LOURDES: A PILGRIMAGE LIKE NO OTHER

Lourdes is one of the most popular Catholic pilgrimage destinations in the world. Here, the Blessed Virgin Mary appeared to 14-year-old Bernadette Soubirous several times in 1858. The site is also famous for the healing waters of the spring uncovered by Bernadette on instruction from the Blessed Virgin Mary. During the past 150 years, millions of pilgrims have flocked to the site, with the hope of receiving a special healing and a deepening of faith.

The International Military Pilgrimage (PMI) in Lourdes was established in 1946 to promote reconciliation and peace after World War II. Every year since, for one weekend in May, Lourdes has become a place of prayer and healing for active duty members and veterans representing more than 35 nations.

Since 2013, the Knights of Columbus has worked with the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, (AMS) to sponsor the annual Warriors to Lourdes Pilgrimage. The event allows non-wounded, wounded, ill or injured military personnel, together with their designated caregivers and volunteers, to travel to the Marian shrine during the PMI for a time of rest, prayer and healing.

By financially supporting the 2017 Warriors to Lourdes Pilgrimage, which takes place on May 16-23, you can make this pilgrimage possible for our military personnel in need.

“We will journey and pray with pilgrims from around the world,” said AMS Archbishop Timothy P. Broglio. “It will be an occasion to raise our hearts and minds to the Prince of Peace and beg for an increase in understanding and a decrease in strife.”

The pilgrimage consists of a number of spiritual events, including an international opening ceremony, special Masses, a visit to the baths at the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes and a candlelight vigil that draws tens of thousands of troops to the sacred shrine every year.

“The Knights of Columbus has a long history of support for our troops and veterans,” Supreme Knight Carl Anderson said. “For a century, serving those who give so much for our country and our freedom has been a priority of the Knights of Columbus, and we are pleased to continue that important tradition.”

Local and state Knights of Columbus councils, assemblies, individuals and other groups can support the 2017 Warriors to Lourdes Pilgrimage with financial contributions.

Each $2,600 donated will send a warrior pilgrim to Lourdes.

All funds donated will be used to defray costs for military personnel and for their designated caregivers.